Guttenberg Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can trust dog bite injury lawyers for dependable support. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal incidents, ensuring proper management of liability and compensation to achieve justice.

Dog Bite at a Dog Park: How Negligence Determines Liability

How Negligence May Apply in an Attack at a Dog Park

Dog parks offer a space for dogs to socialize and exercise off-leash. However, if a dog bite occurs, understanding liability and negligence is crucial. While many cities have leash laws, these often do not apply within dog parks, where dogs are allowed to roam freely. Despite this, dog owners can still be held liable for injuries their pets cause.

Iowa law maintains that dog owners are liable for injuries and damages caused by their dogs, barring certain exceptions. If an owner knowingly allows a dangerous dog to roam freely, their negligence can increase their liability.

Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Owner Liability

According to Iowa's strict liability laws, dog owners are responsible for injuries their dogs cause, even if the owner was not negligent. This means that if a dog bites someone at a dog park, the owner is liable for damages. Exceptions include situations where the dog has rabies, and the owner was unaware of the condition. If an owner knew about the rabies and still took the dog to the park, liability would likely apply.

Injuries Resulting from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Park Liability

In some cases, the owner of the park might share liability. If the park owner knew that a dog owner repeatedly broke park rules by bringing a dangerous dog and did nothing, they could be liable. This is more complex and typically, liability rests with the dog owner. Consulting an attorney is advisable if park negligence is suspected.

Recovery of Damages from a Dog Bite at a Dog Park

Victims of dog bites at dog parks should consult an attorney to explore their options for recovery. Compensation might cover medical bills, future medical expenses, lost wages during recovery, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and disfigurement. An attorney can help determine the appropriate compensation based on the specifics of the case.

Challenges to a Dog Bite Claim and How to Address Them

Iowa Code 351.28 states that dog owners are liable for damages caused by their dogs unless the injured party was committing an unlawful act that contributed to the injury. This clarity in the law still allows for challenges from dog owners.

Common Defenses in Dog Bite Claims

Trespassing

Dog owners often argue that if the victim was trespassing, they are not liable. However, liability may still apply if the trespassing did not contribute to the bite. 

Provocation

Owners may claim the dog was provoked, which can reduce their liability. The definition of provocation can vary, so discussing the specifics with an attorney is important.

Rabies

If the dog had rabies and the owner did not know, liability might not apply. Proving negligence in such cases, like failing to secure a dog known to be aggressive, can still result in liability for the owner.

When to Hire an Attorney

If you have been seriously injured or missed work due to a dog bite, seeking legal advice is crucial. An attorney can navigate the complexities of the law, gather evidence, and advocate for fair compensation.

Why You Need to Hire a Dog Bite Lawyer in Iowa

Iowa’s dog bite laws can be complex, especially in severe injury cases. A knowledgeable attorney can help interpret the law, guide you through the legal process, and ensure you understand your rights.

Maximizing Compensation

An experienced lawyer can accurately assess your claim, considering medical evidence and past cases, to ensure you receive compensation for both current and future medical expenses.

Recovering Lost Wages and Calculating Loss of Earning Capacity

If injuries result in lost wages or impact future earning capacity, an attorney can help calculate these losses. This includes proof of missed work and assessing the long-term impact of injuries on your ability to earn.

Navigating Legal Challenges

Handling a dog bite case without legal guidance risks undervaluing your claim. Attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and enlist expert opinions to strengthen your case.

Determining the Need for Legal Representation

Severe injuries, such as permanent scarring or psychological trauma, warrant legal representation. An attorney can prevent costly mistakes, increase the value of your case, and manage complex insurance claims.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.